For travelers who value the journey as much as the destination, these luxury properties welcome guests with standout arrivals by lake, sea, or sky. From seaplane landings to helicopter arrivals, each resort creates a lasting first impression.
Kokomo Private Island – Fiji (pictured)
Nestled in the pristine Kadavu Islands, south of the Fijian mainland, Kokomo is an all-inclusive island paradise for multi-generational travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, romance, and cultural experiences. The Kokomo journey begins with the arrival experience at their private airport suite at Nadi International Airport. Guests are then swept away on Kokomo’s owned and operated Twin Otter dual command Seaplane or AS350 single turbine Helicopter, for the ultimate Pacific Ocean arrival.
Spread across 140 acres, the island is encircled by rich marine life of the Great Astrolabe Reef. Intertwining traditional Fijian design with contemporary living, the property boasts 21 private sunrise and sunset Villas each with their own infinity pools dotted sparingly along the island’s two beaches, and five hilltop Residences with stunning views. With a deep commitment to preserving the island with regenerative and sustainable programs, Kokomo incorporates environmental strategies in all facets of operation. The property also features a 5.5-acre organic farm and hydroponics garden yielding a variety of local fruits and vegetables, as well as free-range chickens producing the island’s eggs and Italian cross-bred beehives generating the resort’s exotic honey. Kokomo offers three restaurants for on-site locally sourced produce and caught-to-order seafood from its sustainable “Dock to Dish” fishing program. Guests of all ages can embark on premium diving, fishing, kayaking, yachting and snorkeling opportunities in this undisturbed paradise.
The Korta Katarina Collection - Orebić, Croatia
Situated on the Dalmatian Coast in Orebić, Croatia, The Korta Katarina Collection boasts the 8-suite Villa Korta Katarina & Winery and the newly opened 11-room Hotel Katarina -each proudly affiliated with Relais & Châteaux. The properties are complimented by access to Yacht M/Y Katharine, a 201’ classic CRN motor yacht available for 7-day charters.
Framed by sun-drenched vineyards, crystalline waters, and just a short ferry ride from the island of Korčula, Orebić, the collection offers a rare blend of authenticity, seclusion, and elevated hospitality. This sense of effortless escape is now enhanced by a new private helipad, just minutes from Villa Korta Katarina & Winery, offering seamless transfers from Dubrovnik or Split, or virtually any destination accessible by helicopter. This is a game-changer for high-end travelers, eliminating border crossings and long drives, delivering guests straight into the heart of the Pelješac Peninsula in under 30 minutes.
Manoir Hovey by Seaplane - North Hatley, Québec
Located in the beautiful North Hatley, one of Québec’s most picturesque villages, sits the private estate of Manoir Hovey. Arguably one of Canada’s most charming and romantic inns, the 5-star Relais & Châteaux estate is set on 30 acres of woods and English gardens along 600 meters of prime lakeshore on scenic Lake Massawippi. With the new Seaplane Arrival Experience, guests can arrive in style from major hubs in Canada and N. East US cities such as New York City , Washington D.C., Boston and more. The plane can depart from an air strip and land on the lake for a water arrival or in front of the hotel for a land arrival in the winter when the lake freezes.
The sprawling southern-styled mansion boasts 52 exquisitely appointed rooms and suites spaciously situated in the main manor and exterior cottages. Each of the spacious luxury accommodations seamlessly balance the warmth and comfort of authentic southern architecture with modern day conveniences for lakefront luxury. Led by Executive Chef Alexandre Vachon, the five-diamond gastronomic Le Hatley Restaurant serves refined farm-to-fork cuisine that celebrates Quebec’s bountiful terroir and seasonal ingredients, while the Tap Room offers classic bistro comforts enjoyed on the terrace or around the wood-burning fireplace. Le Spa Manoir Hovey is the latest award-winning wellness addition to the property. The new lakeside Spa, encircled by wild Appalachian landscapes, offers a year-round Nordic thermal experience. Additional standout amenities at Manoir Hovey include a heated outdoor pool, two private beaches, clay tennis courts, a historic library, a fitness studio, and equipment for both land and water sports. Discover the private grounds and waterfront with a fleet of hybrid Louis Garneau bikes, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and paddleboats. In the winter months enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating and ice fishing. Built in 1899, the estate has been a family enterprise for several generations.
Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne by Boat and Funicular - Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
Perched on the Bürgenberg mountain 500 meters (1,600 ft) above Lake Lucerne with majestic views of the Swiss Alps, the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne is Switzerland’s best luxury alpine destination. The arrival experience sets the stage for a spectacular stay – a scenic ride across the lake on the M.S. Bürgenstock Catamaran, a 38-meter hybrid shuttle boat. With plenty of indoor-outdoor seating, there are no bad views. Once arriving at the resort’s private dock, guests climb aboard the legendary Bürgenstock Funicular to be smoothly whisked up the face of the mountain in only 4 minutes. Originally built in 1888, The Bürgenstock Funicular was Switzerland's first electric cable funicular and has been rebuilt and adapted with the latest technology over the years, most recently 2017. Don’t miss the first elevated views from the car’s large back windows. The funicular drops guests off in a short corridor adjacent to the lobby where you are greeted with champagne and magnificent panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the Swiss Alps.
Heading into Lucerne or just want another spin? When booking a room at the Bürgenstock Resort, guests have unlimited access to the brand new 5-million Swiss franc MS Bürgenstock Catamaran and to the legendary Bürgenstock Funicular built in 1888 and freshly renovated. The boat and funicular run from 6 am to midnight every hour. The shuttle boat departs from pier 3 in Lucerne, right across Lucerne train station, and takes guests across the lake in 25 minutes. Guests then hop on the Bürgenstock Funicular, which takes them on a steep 4-minute ride and right into the Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa.
